There are differences between residential gutters and commercial gutters that are important to understand before installing your new gutters. This guide has been designed to help you understand the differences between residential and commercial gutter systems. Due to the building size and roof structure, materials used and durability, and complexity of installation, residential and commercial gutters can be very different. Let’s take a look at what residential and commercial mean and also examine the differences already listed along with a few more.
What Does Residential Mean?
Residential is a word used to refer to structures where people live rather than where they work. Residential gutter systems are usually called rain gutters. These gutter systems help to redirect the flow of water (from rain, sleet, or snow melt) through a series of channels that eventually lead down and away from the home. Residential gutter systems can also catch debris from other objects like trees.
What Does Commercial Mean?
Commercial (in this article) refers to buildings that are used to produce, buy, or sell goods and/or services. Commercial gutter systems are important for capturing water and diverting it away from the building. The commercial gutter system is vital for the prevention of damage to the structure’s foundation, preventing erosion of the surrounding landscape, and decreasing the chance of mold growth.
What Makes Them Different?
Now that we have established the main difference, which is the purpose of the building, we can take a deeper look into specific differences. When choosing a gutter system and a professional installer for your project, you can use this guide to make the best decision for your specific needs. Having the proper gutter system in place for residential or commercial buildings is important in avoiding future damage, unexpected repairs, costly fines, and understanding proper maintenance.
Size and Roof Structure
Residential: Residential homes typically have sloped roofs making it easier for water to flow off of the building and prevent water damage. They are also usually smaller than commercial buildings which makes the cost of the gutter system more reasonable than a larger building. The size of the gutter system for a residential building typically ranges around 5-6”. For areas that receive more rainfall or have a lot of foliage, a wider system may be a smarter choice.
Commercial: Commercial buildings are usually much larger than residential buildings and often utilize a flat roof. Depending on the size of the building, gutter systems may be used in conjunction with a type of inner gutter system. These gutter systems range around 6-7+”.
Materials and Durability
Residential: Residential gutter systems can use lighter materials such as plastic if the homeowner wants to, as they typically don’t need to support as heavy of a load compared to larger commercial buildings. There are many different material choices for your home depending on factors like style preference and budget.
Commercial: Steel and aluminum are durable materials that can hold heavier loads and handle harsher weather making them the common choice for commercial structures. The strength of materials used can not only hold a heavier load but they are also built for longevity (variable depending on proper installation and maintenance).
Installation and Maintenance
Residential: Proper installation is a priority if you want your residential gutter system to work efficiently. Although residential systems are less complex than commercial ones, professional installation ensures proper function and easy maintenance. Maintenance can depend on the climate and type of system you choose but a regular schedule should be implemented.
Commercial: Commercial gutter systems are more complex to install due to the building size, roof design, and the need for special equipment. As previously mentioned, the drainage system for commercial rooftops may also involve other types of drainage systems besides gutters. Maintenance of commercial drainage systems should be performed regularly to ensure proper flow of water off and away from the building ensuring its integrity as a safe place of business.
Regulations and Laws
Residential: Knowing your local residential regulations and laws before installing a gutter system is crucial. Residential properties have specific codes relating to the building structure. Following proper regulations and staying within the residential code will help avoid potential fines.
Commercial: Commercial regulations are usually more strict and come with more costly fines if not followed. Commercial regulations on drainage systems not only protect the integrity of your building but following them can enhance the success of your business.
Now You Know
As you can see, knowing the difference between residential and commercial buildings is key to finding out what regulations you must follow and what type of system to install. From the basic qualities of the materials to the complexities of installation, there are many variables to consider when choosing the right gutter system for your residential or commercial structure. Whether you are looking to prevent water damage, protect your foundation, or ensure compliance with local laws and regulations, understanding the difference between residential and commercial gutter systems is the first step. If you need professional guidance, here at One Way Exteriors we are a gutter company in Ludington that specializes in delivering quality, custom solutions to meet your specific needs.
Infographic
